People with the condition also suffer heart problems, lack of growth and loss of body fat and hair.

It affects just 124 children worldwide.

The Progeria Research Foundation posted on its Facebook page: "The entire Progeria family mourns together with many as we say goodbye to Hayley Okines, our smart, beautiful and spirited English rose, who passed away today at age 17."

Phoebe Smith, whose 11-year-old daughter Ashanti also has the condition, said Hayley had inspired a lot of people.

"She will always be loved. She is my inspiration - her and her mum," she said.